The UTRGV Vaqueros football team has been predicted to finish fourth in the Southland Conference. This is a significant improvement from their predicted finish of 10th out of 10 teams in the previous year's preseason poll. The team's performance in their inaugural season, with a 9-3 record and a 5-3 conference record, likely contributed to the change in perception.

The team's coach acknowledges that preseason rankings do not necessarily determine the outcome of the season. However, the improved ranking suggests a shift in how the team is viewed. Further details about the team's prospects and the preseason poll are available from the source.